Letter: Arts A-levels not a soft option for the indolent

Sir: Indeed, "How do you judge English literature against physics?"

It would be interesting to know the nature of the research which has shown that from the range of subjects on offer at A-level "English, business studies, home economics, design and technology and communication studies [are] the easiest". In the proposals to "toughen" all examinations except maths and science the agenda is not so hidden.

If too many students are lured into the study of English and English Literature at A-level because of false perceptions, at least as English teachers we can hope that the rigours of the subject will hone their critical and analytical skills so that they become sharp enough to dissect edu- politspeak from the truth.

Rosemary Oliver

Head of English,

Surbiton High School,

Kingston upon Thames,

Surrey